5 steps to keep your hair healthy this winter

Did you know that Winter is the most drying season for your hair and skin? Think about it, in Winter we are surrounded by air-conditioners and heaters, which dries out our hair. There is also less moisture in the air so we should really be moisturizing our hair more often. But really now, who wants to do a wash n go when it’s vrek cold outside? Not me! So I’ve rounded up a few ways I keep my hair healthy during the colder season. Hope this helps you too.

1. Pre-poo

I mist my hair very lightly with water and then massage my scalp with penetrating oil such as coconut, avocado or castor oil. Massaging for a good 10 to 15 minutes before shampooing my hair really helps to moisturize it during the washing process. By now I’m sure you know that moisturizing your hair is the number one rule for every naturalista.

2. Deep condition

I have a confession to make – I suck at deep conditioning my hair. Every time someone asks me how to best maintain their hair I preach about a good deep conditioner. Truth is I really should deep condition my hair more than I am currently doing. Whether you decide to buy an over the counter deep conditioner, or mix your own using ingredients found in your kitchen (ie avocado pear, aloe water, olive oil, eggs) and your usual conditioner as a base, deep conditioning your hair for at least 30mins will help retain moisture. If you decide to try your hand at mixing your own deep conditioner, stay away from humectants such as honey and glycerine in Winter. Humectants are designed to draw moisture from the hair. So, although they are fantastic for the retention of moisture during summer, humectants will possibly have the opposite effect on your hair during the colder months, causing it to dry out and break off.

3. Protective Styling

Braids, buns, twists, updo’s, hats and scarves, are a great way to protect your hair. These are referred to as protective styling. Wearing your hair in protective styles help to retain moisture and prevent hair damage. Personally I am falling in love with scarves this Winter. By protecting your hair you won’t be over-manipulating it so much, which inevitably causes hair damage.

4. Inside out

Yep, drinking water and eating a balanced diet helps keep you bright eyed and bushy tailed. Remember, what you put in your body is what you get out. Don’t forget those vitamins! I am currently using a biotin supplement called Perfectil plus Skin to assist in keeping my hair and skin healthy.

5. Snip. It. Off!

Don’t forget to trim your tresses whenever those scruffy bits start showing. Ain’t nobody got time to hold on to bits of hair that no longer serve you! Same goes for bad relationships #justsaying #micdrop